This iPhone Requires Backup Files to Be Encrypted

iTunes says “This iPhone requires backup files to be encrypted”

If you are new to using iTunes to backup iPhone to PC, you may come across the message in iTunes “This iPhone requires backup files to be encrypted”. Why are you prompted with this messages, and what does it mean? Let this guide to tell you.

What does it mean to encrypt iPhone backup?
Encryption is a process that encodes files and data in a way that only your device can understand. When your iPhone prompts you to encrypt backup files, it is offering an extra layer of security for your data.

The purpose of encrypting your iPhone backup files is to prevent unauthorized access, ensuring that your privacy is protected in a secure manner. By encrypting your backup files, you make it much more difficult for anyone to access or decipher your personal information.

Encrypting your backup files adds an extra level of protection to your data, making it essential for safeguarding sensitive information, such as personal contacts, messages, and app data.

Should I encrypt iPhone backup?
Here are some key reasons why you should consider encrypting your iPhone backups:

✅ Enhanced Security from Unauthorized Entry

✅ Seamless Protection during Transfer and Storage

✅ Preserving Personal Privacy

So, when you encounter the message "This iPhone requires backup files to be encrypted," it's a proactive measure to keep your data safe and secure from potential threats.

How to encrypt iPhone backup using iTunes

It is a simple and easy procedure to create encrypt backup for iPhone using iTunes. In the following section, you will receive comprehensive instructions on how to encrypt your iPhone backups using iTunes.

Step 1. Launch the latest version of iTunes on your computer > Connect your iPhone to computer with USB.

Step 2. Click the phone icon > Tick This Computer > Check Encrypt iPhone backup > From the prompted window, enter the password to encrypt iPhone backup.

Step 3. Confirm your password, and click Back Up Now to begin the task.

[One-click] An easier way to backup iPhone

While encrypting backups using iTunes provides an additional layer of security, some users may find the process cumbersome or prefer a more streamlined approach. That's where FoneTool comes in. FoneTool is an all-in-one iPhone management tool that offers a one-click solution to backup your iPhone, including the option to encrypt your backups for enhanced security.

Compared with iTunes, FoneTool has got following features:
Optional backup mode: By utilizing FoneTool, you can fully or selectively backup iPhone to PC.
Modifiable backup location: For your iPhone data security, you may want to backup iPhone to USB drives, external hard drives, and NAS, etc. FoneTool has got you covered.
Easy to access backup files: With just one click, you can easily locate and view your backed-up data on your computer.
Free of data loss: When restoring a selective backup to your iPhone, rest assured that no existing data on your device will be erased.

Click the icon below to get this powerful tool to your PC, and follow the steps below to backup your iPhone and keep it safe.

Step 1. Connect your iPhone to computer using USB > Launch FoneTool, and click Phone Backup from the left pane > Click Get Started under Full Backup. You can also choose Selective Backup to selectively backup iPhone.

Step 2. Switch on Enable Backup Encryption > When asked, enter and verify your password to encrypt iPhone backup > Click OK to continue.

Please keep your password in mind, since it will be used to access the backup files in the future.

Step 3. Modify the backup storage path if needed. Finally, click Start Backup to begin the backup process.

When you need to restore the encrypt backup for iPhone from FoneTool, just get to the Backup History page > locate the backup files > Click the restore icon > Enter your backup password to restore it.

Besides, if you have trouble restoring iPhone from iTunes backup, you can rely on powerful FoneTool to import and restore iTunes backup.

Summary & FAQs

In conclusion, when you are shown “This iPhone requires backup files to be encrypted” message in iTunes, you are on the way to encrypt your iPhone backup files.

Encrypting your iPhone backups is crucial for maintaining the security and confidentiality of your personal data. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can secure your iPhone backups and enjoy peace of mind knowing that your data is protected whether using iTunes or FoneTool. If this guide is helpful, please share it with others.

FAQs

Q1: How can I be sure that my iPhone backup is encrypted?
A1: To check whether your iPhone backup is encrypted, you can go to the menu bar of iTunes > Edit > Preferences > Devices. The lock icon next to the name of the device implies that your iPhone backup is encrypted.

Q2: Can I reset iTunes backup password?
A2: You can reset iTunes backup password when you forget the password for your encrypted iPhone backup in iTunes. But please be noted that you won’t be able to access your previous encrypted backups.

You can directly reset iTunes backup password by going to iPhone Settings > General > Transfer or Reset iPhone > Reset > Reset All Settings. Enter your iPhone password to confirm the operation.

Q3: How to fix iTunes this iPhone requires backup files to be encrypted “could not be set”?
A3: This issue may occur if you sync over Wi-Fi with iTunes. The best way to get rid of this error is to plug your iPhone into your computer when attempting to create an encrypted backup. However, if your iPhone has been plugged in already, you can simply remove the USB cable and reconnect after a while.

Q4: What happens if I restore an encrypted backup to a new iPhone?
A4: Restoring an encrypted backup to a new iPhone requires entering the encryption password. Once done, all the data, settings, and passwords from the original device will be transferred to the new one.